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Nanaimo BMX aiming for $50,000 prize in #SimpleGenerosity contest

Nanaimo BMX

NANAIMO — Voting is underway in the #SimpleGenerosity community grant contest.

It's an initiative by Island Savings Credit Union to award one group in the region $50,000 for a community-focused project.

Nanaimo BMX is looking to get into the list of top ten finalists, and track operator Mike Smith says they have a project in mind that will serve the community very well.

"For us that $50,000 that goes a long way," Smith said. "We're looking to improve our rider safety and with that we're looking for a brand new gate which will contribute to all aspects of safety for the community itself and all our riders."

The barrel safety gate would cost about $35,000 and the rest of the money would go towards a full track rebuild.

Smith says their organization stands out because of the wide spectrum of people that use their Labieux Road facility.

"Ours is definitely unique. Anybody and everybody can compete at Nanaimo BMX. Ages two to 65 - your whole family whether it's your little sister, big brother, your mom, your dad, even your grandparents can do this sport and be involved. Our track is totally open to the public so all of Nanaimo can use this facility," said Smith.

Island Savings has set up a website called volinspire.com to highlight all of the community groups vying for a top ten spot and the $50,000.

Voting began on May 29 and will wrap up on June 23 with Nanaimo BMX currently second in the voting.